10 Inspirational Graphics About Cot Beds

How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby

If you are expecting your first child it is essential to select a cot which will ensure safety and security for your baby. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that are in line with strict UK safety standards.

This minimalist, stylish crib is our top choice from the Anyday collection by John Lewis. It comes with three mattress positions, teething bars, and an storage drawer. It's also easy to set up with clear instructions.

Comfort

The best cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Look for a soft and breathable fabric and make sure the mattress is fitted snugly to prevent any gaps which could pose the risk of suffocation. There are a range of mattresses available that include coil springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers, so do your research and select the right one for your baby's needs.

Whatever you decide to use, whether a conventional cot or a convertible one, a comfortable mattress is vital to your the comfort. It must provide the right support and promote an ideal posture. The slats need to be securely attached and not sagging. The slats need to be securely attached to the frame so that your child does not become caught in the movement in their sleep.

If you're not sure which mattress to purchase, talk to your family and friends or consult online reviews for recommendations. Choose mattresses that are breathable, as they help regulate your body temperature and less likely to harbor bacteria.

In terms of style there's a variety of styles of styles, from traditional sleigh designs with intricate details to sleek, contemporary designs. Some are even painted with bright primary colors which is great when you want your child to wake up bright and content!

There are a lot of cots that have a drawer underneath for storage as well as teething rails that protect your baby from chewing on the side of the cot, as well as adjustable height bases to accommodate baby's growth. You can also purchase a drop-side for babies who aren't tall enough or suffer from medical conditions that make it difficult for them to bend over.

To ensure your peace of mind, look for a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standards and can easily convert into an infant bed when the time is appropriate. This information is available in the product description and the specifications.

Safety

A safe sleeping environment is an essential factor when selecting a bed. The mattress should be able to fit snugly and there should be no gaps between the mattress and the ends or sides of the cot/cot-bed (large gaps can hold the child's arms and head). Check that the mattress is not too firm and thin. Mattresses that are thick can increase the risk of SIDS. Many companies sell mattresses in various materials including foam and natural materials that are good for those suffering from allergies. Some even come with an anti-microbial treatment. If your mattress has an inclined side, make sure it is in the up position and secured.

Drop sides should only be allowed to go down only when an adult is present in the room. This prevents accidental releases. Avoid placing your cot on a wall if it has an end that is solid. This will hinder airflow and could result in death of the coffin. According to the latest research, cots with slatted ends are safer since they permit more airflow.

If your crib has a fixed side choose this option as it's safer when your child starts to crawl and climb up. When your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's time to move to a junior bed.

Some cots have features that allow the base can be raised to three different levels to allow it to increase with your child's growth which is extremely useful and is a security measure. Some cots and tots have footplates that can be adjusted to suit for toddlers who want to stand up.

If you are putting your child in their cot, ensure that there isn't any visible danger - it must be kept away from heaters or power points, windows and blind cords and curtains (these can be strangulation hazards). If you're purchasing furniture from a secondhand store or an heirloom piece, check for dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfer tapes that could peel off and present a risk.

If you're unsure of how to safely use your cot, ask other parents for help or go to an local NCT New baby cots on sale class. If your cot comes with a manual be sure to go through it prior to using it and follow the directions.

Style

With its gorgeous sleigh style This stunning cot bed will look amazing in your nursery. Our panel loved the mix of white and natural pine, and its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers to keep all the baby necessities like nappies, bedding, tots and cots a dazzling assortment of baby clothes. It's also a breeze to put together, with concise instructions and separate sets of screws for each section. It can also be transformed into a toddler's desk and bed as your child grows older (see the product description for more information).

One of our most loved features are the teething rails which protect your baby from smacking their head against the cot's side or any other protruding parts of the cot like handles or a corner post. They can also stop them from chewing on the wood, preventing them from becoming suffocated. The cot also has an opening that can be dropped to make it easier for access to your infant cot bed. We appreciate that the cot could be transformed into a toddler bed and that it's sturdy enough to last for four years. It also complies with the stringent UK safety standards, which can be found in the main specifications beneath each product.

Cot beds are typically larger than cribs and can be transformed into toddler beds once your child is ready and you can avoid purchasing a new bed at an age when they're ready to move on. They are more expensive than cribs.

If your nursery is small, a crib might be the best choice for you as it is smaller and takes up less space, but should your baby be expected to spend most of the time in their parents' room or you want a longer-lasting bed, you should consider a crib.

If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards outlined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which cover mattress thicknesses, materials, and other key elements in baby cot mattresses) It is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too wide apart to stop your baby from falling off.

Storage

If you're a new parent or a veteran the amount of items that a baby requires is overwhelming. This is why it's crucial to think about storage options when selecting a crib bed. Many cots come with additional storage solutions available such as under-bed drawers or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Some cots can be converted into toddler beds or a smaller single beds to expand their use.

Some cot beds can be further adapted into a day bed, as seen here on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer more flexible designs as the process of conversion is simple and involves the removal of one side panel. This allows parents to save money on a separate bed.

Some cot beds come with a hanging rail that can be used to hang muslins, dummies, as well as other small things. This helps keep everything neat, tidy and organised. It also looks fantastic. These items are easily accessible to parents which makes it easier for parents to feed their child.

A teething rail is another desirable feature that is included in some cots. This will prevent your child from chewing on the wooden cot which could cause irritation. Some cots come with an older style and have a huge storage drawer under the bed that is ideal for clothes, toys blankets, and other baby necessities.

This is a great solution if space is an issue however, you will need to purchase a drawer separately. You may also need to purchase a different mattress and bedding as sheets and mattresses that are oval aren't typically included in the cot.

This sleigh cot bed from Stokke is a lovely example of Scandi-style at its best and comes with a massive under-bed storage drawer that's ideal for keeping all those baby's essentials out of view but still within reach. Our panel of experts found it easy to put together, thanks to the alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions. It's suitable for infants as young as birth and can be converted into a toddler's bed once your child's ready.